Wow, these are exciting times!

I just read two of the propositions we will vote on this November, Propositions 105 and 106. If you are gambling person, you should, too.

Proposition 105 is a bettor’s bonanza. It doesn’t specify any land for conservation–not one acre. If it passes, the state legislature will determine a process for conserving land. And who wrote Proposition 105? Why, the legislature itself.

Since 105 leaves the rules up to the legislature, the legislature has a lot of options. It could keep the job of deciding which land to conserve to itself. It could assign one person to the job. Or none at all. Who knows?

Proposition 105 states that the legislature can conserve “up to 400,000 acres.” It could be one acre, or it could be 400,000 acres. And who knows where that land will be? I’m not taking bets on that.

Proposition 106 states up front exactly which land can be conserved. Goodness, it even includes maps. Where’s the risk in that?

Just look at who supports Proposition 106: Teachers. Mayors. City and town councilmen of every stripe. Every conservation organization in the state. The Arizona State Horseman’s Association. Firefighters. Mountain bikers.

Now look at the principal opponent of 106–the Home Builders Association of Central Arizona. I’m a betting man, but I’m not willing to bet that people who profit from cheap land are looking out for the best interests of the people of Arizona. Join me in supporting the sure thing, Proposition 106.

Stephen Jones

Scottsdale